Tokyo: Observations

A trip to Tokyo isn’t complete without diving into the Otaku culture. In my previous post, I mentioned that I didn’t have a lot of time to move around Tokyo during the day as I was busy with work-related endeavors, so it was only during the weekend where I really felt compelled to take the train two stops from Shimbashi Station down over to Akihabara. And all I have to say is that … OMG. JAPAN. SUCH CULTURE!

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What I found fascinating was that in Tokyo, gambling is actually synonymous to an arcade. I failed to see casinos as we know it — but coin-op arcades for slots, and other anime-skinned betting devices. I really wanted to stay — walking into these semi-casinos because they were all colorful, decorated with balloons, bright lights and maids. And they can be found in very public places. I’m not sure how the Japanese treat online casinos — like with apps (why not online bingo?), but it seems that these casinos on the streets are actually geared to be family friendly — if not for the smoke.

About the author

Jayvee Fernandez

Jayvee Fernandez is a tech enthusiast, EAN certified SCUBA Diver and underwater photographer based in Metro Manila, Philippines. His photos and videos have appeared in various international and local publications including Random House Germany, Discovery Channel Canada, and CNN.